The Best Private Schools in Kellogg, Idaho
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Kellogg. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Oaks Classical Christian Academy
Independent Classical Christian
Located in Coeur d'Alene approximately 40 miles from Kellogg, The Oaks Classical Christian Academy provides a distinctive classical education rooted in Christian principles. Serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade, the school employs the trivium method of grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages. The curriculum includes Latin instruction, classical literature, advanced mathematics, and science with laboratory components. The school features small class sizes, experienced faculty, and a strong emphasis on critical thinking and character development. Parents consistently rate the school highly for academic rigor, teacher quality, and the supportive learning environment.
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St. Thomas More Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Spokane
St. Thomas More Catholic School is a highly-regarded private school located approximately 75 miles from Kellogg in Spokane, Washington. Serving students from preschool through 8th grade, the school offers a comprehensive Catholic education with strong emphasis on academic excellence, faith formation, and character development. The curriculum includes advanced STEM programs, comprehensive arts education, and competitive athletics. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, a chapel, and extensive sports facilities. Parent reviews consistently praise the dedicated teachers, strong community atmosphere, and rigorous academic preparation.
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St. George's School
Independent College Preparatory
St. George's School is a prestigious independent college preparatory school located in Spokane, Washington, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school offers a rigorous academic program with extensive Advanced Placement course offerings, comprehensive arts programs including theater and visual arts, and competitive athletic teams. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, athletic fields, and technology-enhanced classrooms. With a strong focus on global education and community service, St. George's prepares students for top-tier colleges and universities. Parent reviews highlight exceptional faculty, outstanding college placement records, and a nurturing yet challenging educational environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Kellogg, Idaho
What are the primary private school options available for families living in or near Kellogg, Idaho?
Kellogg, Idaho, offers a small but distinct selection of private schools, primarily with religious affiliations. The main options include St. Thomas More Catholic School (PK-8), which provides a traditional Catholic education; The Oaks Classical Christian Academy, offering a classical curriculum from a Protestant Christian perspective; and St. George's School, an independent school with a focus on holistic development. Given the rural nature of the Silver Valley, these schools serve not only Kellogg but also families from surrounding communities like Pinehurst, Smelterville, and Wallace. Availability can vary by grade level, so contacting schools directly for current openings is essential.
How does tuition at private schools in Kellogg, ID, compare to the state average, and are there any Idaho-specific financial aid options?
Tuition for private schools in the Kellogg area is generally below the national private school average, reflecting the local cost of living, but can be a significant consideration for families in Shoshone County. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition typically ranges from approximately $4,000 to $7,000 annually for elementary grades. Idaho offers specific financial aid opportunities that Kellogg families can utilize, most notably the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for eligible students and the Idaho Education Tax Credit, which allows donors to direct funds to a specific school and receive a tax credit, effectively increasing scholarship pools. Additionally, individual schools often have their own need-based aid and parish subsidies for affiliated families.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in Kellogg offer that leverage the local environment and community?
Private schools in Kellogg often integrate the unique geography and history of North Idaho into their programs. Given the area's rich mining heritage and outdoor recreational opportunities, you may find specialized field trips to the Crystal Gold Mine or the Sierra Silver Mine, environmental science units focused on the Coeur d'Alene National Forest, and outdoor education emphasizing hiking, skiing at nearby Silver Mountain, and river ecology. The Oaks Classical Christian Academy, for example, might incorporate local history into its classical studies, while St. Thomas More may organize community service projects tied to local needs. These programs provide a deeply contextualized learning experience you wouldn't find in an urban setting.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Kellogg, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for private schools in Kellogg typically begins in January or February for the following fall, with priority often given to current families and siblings. Given the limited seats, especially in popular grades, it's advisable to initiate inquiries by early winter. The process usually involves submitting an application, providing academic records, a family interview, and sometimes a student assessment. While large waitlists are less common than in metropolitan areas, the smaller class sizes mean that desirable grades (like kindergarten or specific middle school years) can fill quickly. St. George's School and The Oaks may have rolling admission if space allows, but St. Thomas More often follows a stricter parish-based priority timeline.
For families considering both sectors, what are the key differences between the Kellogg School District public schools and the local private school options?
The key differences lie in class size, curriculum focus, and community environment. Kellogg public schools, like Kellogg Middle School and Kellogg High School, offer a broad range of programs, including robust vocational/CTE tracks aligned with local industries, and larger extracurricular offerings like football and band. Private schools in Kellogg provide much smaller class sizes (often 10-15 students), a specific values-based education (Catholic or Classical Christian), and a consistent K-8 pathway in one building. A major practical consideration is transportation; while the district provides buses, private school families are responsible for their own transportation, which can be a challenge in the widespread Silver Valley. Academically, private schools often have more uniform curricular approaches, while public schools must adhere to state standards and testing.